First Birthday Portrait: Capturing the Milestone
Storey Wilkins Photography
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Storey Wilkins Photography

Traditional Baby Portrait on the First Birthday

The Classic Portrait Window

Traditional baby portraits are typically scheduled between six and twelve months—that developmental sweet spot when babies sit independently but aren't yet walking. They're alert, engaged, and able to be positioned naturally. By the first birthday, many babies have mastered sitting and may even be standing or cruising, offering beautiful versatility for editorial-style portraits.

After the Party

This family celebrated their little guy's first birthday with a party, then scheduled his portrait session for the day after. This approach is remarkably smart. The birthday itself remains focused on celebration with family and friends, free from the pressure of a formal photo session. The next day, when things are calmer, we can create beautiful, unhurried portraits that truly capture this milestone.

Why This Timing Works

Separating the party from the portrait session benefits everyone. The baby isn't overwhelmed by too much stimulation in one day. Parents can focus on hosting their celebration without coordinating photography logistics simultaneously. And I can work in optimal conditions—good natural light, relaxed environment, a well-rested baby—to create publication-quality images.

Documenting Milestones Thoughtfully

The first birthday represents an extraordinary year of growth and change. Professional portraits at this stage provide a beautiful capstone to baby's first twelve months, documenting not just how they look, but who they're becoming as their personality emerges.

Location: private residence in Rosedale Toronto.

Keywords: baby (40), classic (13), indoor (31), portrait (82), white (5). 1/200; f/5.0; ISO 2000; 86.0 mm.